Walter Kent Bradley

Walter "Kent" Bradley, 70 of Hardy, Va., went home to be with the Lord on July 09, 2025. Kent was born on January 02, 1955, in Roanoke, Va. to the late Jacob Walter Bradley, Sr. and Virginia Wirtz Gray.

During his years of employment, Kent supported his family as a Machinist at Norfolk Southern Railway where numerous friendships were established. Following retirement, he enjoyed the art of gardening and woodworking, as he was very skilled at both. When not in his garden or working in his shop, you may have found him helping others in the community with some random tasks, as he never had met a stranger. You may have also met him while attending Elevation Church, where he was a proud member. He was most definitely a friend to all that knew him, but he will be remembered most for the love he had for family.

In addition to his parents, Kent was also preceded in death by his stepfather, whom he knew as his dad, Clarence R. Gray.

Kent is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Karen C. Bradley; children, Sara Bradley Pierce (John); brother, Larry Gray (Dominque); grandchildren, Eric and Karl Pierce; nieces, Audrey and Lauren Gray; and many beloved cousins.

The family will welcome friends on Monday, July 14, 2025, from 6 until 8 p.m. at the John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at 2 p.m. in the funeral homes chapel, with Pastor David Shearer officiating. Burial will follow at Evergreen Burial Park in Roanoke.

Online condolences can be made to the Bradley family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com